We recently caught up with a learner that finished an Early Years skills bootcamp at ACL, read on to find out what they had to say about their course and how it has supported them in achieving their goals:
Please tell us about a bit about yourself
I was looking to return to work after starting a family and to make a career change and wanted to become a teaching assistant at a primary school but felt unsure as to how to achieve this. I have very young children, and it was important to me that the courses fitted around them.
I have taken courses both in person and online through ACL. The help and support I have received and continue to receive is amazing. From the great advice and guidance, I obtained when I first enquired at ACL about different courses and the best way to achieve my goals to all the supportive tutors I have encountered along the way.
I now have functional skills level 2 in both English and Maths, I have completed an Early years bootcamp and I am currently taking level 2 support work in schools.
Why did you decide to enrol on this course?
To become a teaching assistant, you need a GCSE grade C or above in English and Maths, and I did not have those grades. I chose to do a functional skills course in both which is to equivalent the GCSE grade C and takes less time than retaking a GCSE.
I was also introduced to the new Bootcamp style courses that had just been set up by ACL. Early years education is of great interest to me, and this felt like the perfect opportunity to step into that aera. Once I had completed the course, I asked my tutor if there were any other courses she was teaching that I could join. She recommended the Support work in school level 2, the course has been interesting, and I am enjoying it very much it.
Please tell us more about what you’re currently studying or job you are in, and your career/learning aspirations?
I am about to start work at a primary school as teaching assistant which is so exciting. I am continuing the support work in schools level 2 course which is due to finish in March. Once I have completed the support work in schools, I will continue the Early Years level 3 course from the bootcamp. Eventually I would like to become a higher-level teaching assistant.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I am incredibly grateful for the help and support I have received from all the amazing staff at ACL.
They have surpassed all my expectations and made me feel like anything was possible. By following their advice and guidance I have now achieved my goal and will continue my learning journey with confidence.
If you are considering a return work or a career change, I would strongly recommend talking to incredible people at the ACL.
If this learner’s journey has inspired you, why not take a look at our upcoming skills bootcamp courses, which are currently available in Early Years, Digital Marketing and Project Management (Construction and the Built Environment.
